Episodes
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🔥 Episode Summary:
In this laugh-out-loud yet surprisingly helpful episode, Roy “Al G” Free dives deep (but not deeper than 8 feet — OSHA says no) into the gritty world of pool tile cleaning. Whether you’re dealing with crusty calcium deposits, waterline slime, or mysterious gunk that may or may not be alive, this episode has got you covered.
From classic brushing and vinegar scrubs to soda blasting and bead bombing like you’re power-washing the Sistine Chapel, Roy explains it all — with a healthy dose of dad jokes, absurd humor, and just enough useful product knowledge to make your pool sparkle like it's on a dating app.
🧼 What You'll Learn:
The traditional “tried-and-true” methods of tile cleaning (and why your grandma would approve)How to use vinegar, baking soda, and pumice without accidentally scrubbing a hole into the space-time continuumWhy bead blasting sounds intense (and kind of is)How soda blasting differs (spoiler: it’s not the diet version)Tools & gadgets Roy recommends — including The Wall Whale, which sounds fake but absolutely isn’tWhy chlorine and candlelight don’t mixHow to tell if your tile needs cleaning or just a good cry🛠️ Tools & Products Mentioned:
The Wall Whale Classic Pool BrushTile Scrubber with Quick ConnectBlue Torrent 360° BrushPumice Stone with Pole AdapterPoolife Tile Cleaner RxClemco Pool Pal Bead Blaster (for folks who like to clean aggressively)💬 Quotable Moments:
“Bead blasting is like a microdermabrasion facial… for your pool.”“If your pool tile looks like it’s been through the Dust Bowl of ’32, you’re not alone — just crusty.”“Use vinegar to clean your tiles and confuse your neighbors into thinking you’re pickling the deep end.”🤪 Dad Joke of the Episode:
“Why did the pool tile call in sick?
Because it had a scaling issue.”🔗 Links & Resources:
Full tool list at cpoclass.com/toolsLearn more about professional blasting methods at dustlessblasting.comRoy’s favorite brush? It’s the one that whales on algae. Available at yardandpool.com -
Phosphates are everywhere—in your pool, your tap water, even your chemicals—and they’re feeding algae while making your chlorine work overtime. In this episode, we take a deep dive into what phosphates are, where they come from, why they matter, and how to get rid of them.
We’ll bust some myths, explain why test kits don’t tell the whole story, Oh—and yes, there are dad jokes. Because what’s a pool podcast without a little chlorine-soaked humor?
🔬 Topics Covered:
What phosphates are (and why algae love them)Why phosphates increase chlorine demandThe hidden phosphate sources in your pool:Tap waterLeaves, pollen, soil, and swimmersCertain pool chemicalsThe difference between orthophosphates, polyphosphates, and metaphosphatesWhy most test kits only tell part of the storygWhy “just add more chlorine” is not a real solutionReal-world phosphate removal strategiesProducts that help reduce or eliminate phosphatesOur favorite pool-related dad jokes (you’ve been warned)🧴 Products & Tools Mentioned:
PR-10,000 Phosphate RemoverSC-1000 (phosphate-free scale/stain preventer)Natural Chemistry Pool PerfectTaylor K-1106 Phosphate Test KitClorox Pool&Spa Phosphate RemoverAnd more available through AquaTech, Walmart, Amazon, and professional suppliers🧠 Key Takeaway:
You can’t stop phosphates from getting in your pool—but you can kick them out. If you want predictable water and fewer green pool disasters, phosphate removal isn’t optional—it’s smart.
🤣 Dad Jokes of the Day:
What do you call a pool tech who never removes phosphates?
Algae’s favorite person.Why did the pool water go to therapy?
Because it had too many underlying issues—and phosphates were just the surface tension. -
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In this episode of Pool School, host Roy "Al G." Free dives headfirst into the sparkling world of borates — what they are, why you need them, and how to properly add borax to your pool water. Roy walks you through dosing tips, balancing pH and alkalinity with muriatic acid, and explains how borates help stabilize pH, stretch chlorine supply, reduce UV degradation, minimize scaling, and even make your pool feel silky-smooth. Plus, he dishes out a healthy serving of lame dad jokes along the way. (You’ve been warned.)
Whether you're a new pool owner or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with practical advice, chemistry insights, and laughs to keep your water (and your mood) crystal clear.
Topics Covered:
Why pH drifts upward in pools — and how borates put the brakes on itHow to use borax to establish a 50 ppm borate levelWhy you must add muriatic acid after borax to rebalance pH and alkalinityHow borates act as an algaestat, helping chlorine last longerBorates’ bonus role in protecting chlorine from solar UV degradationHow borates reduce calcium scaling and extend equipment lifeMaking your pool water feel softer and more luxuriousWhy borates are a set-it-and-forget-it solution (no constant re-adding needed)Pet safety considerations when using boratesDad jokes so bad they’re almost goodKey Takeaways:
Dosage Guide: Add 2.5 pounds of borax per 1,000 gallons to achieve ~50 ppm borateAcid Balance: Add ~12 ounces of muriatic acid for every 2.5 pounds of boraxTesting: Always test and adjust pH and Total Alkalinity after additionsMaintenance: Only re-dose after significant water loss (splash-out, backwashing, leaks, draining)Memorable Quotes:
“Adding borates to your pool is like giving it a seatbelt, a spa day, and a bodyguard... all at the same time.”“Borax doesn’t get used up. It just hangs out like that one uncle at every family barbecue — but way more helpful.”“Stretching your chlorine with borates is like hiring a personal assistant for your sanitizer. Algae? Sorry, it’s not taking calls right now.”Dad Joke Highlights:
Why did the pool water feel depressed? Because it had low self-‘steam.’What’s a pool’s favorite type of music? Anything with a ‘current’ beat.Why did the chlorine break up with the algaecide? Too clingy.Links Mentioned:
CDC Pool Chemical Safety GuidelinesDetailed Borate Chemistry Resource (external)Connect with Us:
Subscribe to Pool School Podcast wherever you listen!Leave a review if you enjoyed today's dive into the science of borates.Got pool questions or joke submissions for Roy? Email us at: [email protected] us on Instagram: @PoolSchoolPodcast -
In this episode, we dive deep into the science behind swimming pool algaecides—what they are, how they work, and which ones are worth your time and money. Whether you're dealing with green gunk taking over your deep end or just looking to keep your pool looking crystal-clear all season long, understanding these chemicals can give you a serious edge.We’ll break down the 7 main types of pool algaecides—from quats to copper, polyquats to PHMB—and explain exactly how each one kills or prevents algae. Spoiler alert: not all algaecides are created equal, and more isn’t always better.
If you’re a pool pro or just a pool nerd, this episode will help you level up your chemical game and make smarter choices for your clients or backyard oasis.
In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
💧 What quaternary ammonium compounds (quats) are and why they sometimes cause foaming🧪 How polyquats are the non-foaming upgrade to traditional quats🔬 Why copper and silver algaecides kill algae at the cellular level—but come with staining risks⚡ The surprising truth about sodium bromide and how it supercharges chlorine🚫 Why PHMB works without chlorine—and why it can’t play nice with other systems⏱️ How hydrogen peroxide shocks algae into oblivion in chlorine-free setups🎯 Which algaecide to choose depending on whether you're preventing or fighting an outbreakWho This Episode Is For:
Pool service techs who want better results without wasting chemicalsPool company owners training new hires on chemical treatmentsHomeowners maintaining their own pools who are tired of green surprisesAnyone who wants to understand why one product works when another fails -
In this episode of the Pool School Podcast, Roy "Al G" Free tackles the ever-present challenge of algae growth in swimming pools. Algae, whether it's green, yellow, or black, can quickly turn your pool from a refreshing oasis into a green, slimy swamp. Roy dives into the world of metallic algaecides, specifically copper, silver, and zinc, and explains how these powerful metals work individually and synergistically to prevent and control algae blooms.
Key topics covered include:
What are Chelated Metals?
Roy explains the process of chelation, which involves binding metal ions to molecules to keep them stable and effective in the pool. Chelation ensures that the algaecides remain active longer and reduces the risk of staining pool surfaces.Copper: The Algae Killer
Learn how copper works to kill algae by causing cell lysis, breaking apart algae cell membranes. Roy also discusses how copper disrupts the Calvin cycle, a crucial part of algae's photosynthesis process, preventing them from producing the energy they need to survive.Silver: The Stealthy Biocide
Roy delves into silver’s unique method of causing oxidative stress inside algae cells, damaging their internal structures and ultimately leading to cell death. Silver’s ability to weaken algae internally makes it an effective and silent killer.Zinc: The Supportive Player
Zinc's role is more subtle but no less important. Roy explains how zinc affects algae's ability to metabolize energy and photosynthesize, weakening them and making them more vulnerable to copper and silver.Synergy of Copper, Silver, and Zinc
When combined, these three metals create a powerhouse algaecide. Roy explains how they work together, each targeting different aspects of algae biology, ensuring a more comprehensive and long-lasting algae control solution.By the end of the episode, listeners will understand how these metallic algaecides work, why chelation is crucial for their effectiveness, and how to use them together to keep pools clear and algae-free. Whether you're a pool owner or a professional, this episode offers practical insights into using copper, silver, and zinc for algae control.
Key Takeaways:
Copper, silver, and zinc work together to attack algae on multiple fronts.Chelation helps metallic algaecides remain effective for longer without staining.By understanding the science behind these metals, pool owners can make smarter decisions to maintain clean, clear water.Tune in and learn how to keep your pool free from the dreaded green swamp water with the power of metallic algaecides!
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In this episode of Pool School Podcast, host Roy "Al G." Free takes a deep dive into one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, aspects of pool care: the Langelier Saturation Index (LSI). If you've ever wondered why your pool water sometimes feels off, or why scale builds up in your pool equipment, this episode is for you.
Roy breaks down the science of LSI in an easy-to-understand way, explaining how it helps you maintain the perfect balance in your pool water. He’ll cover how LSI can prevent scaling and corrosion, ensuring your pool and equipment stay in top condition.
But LSI isn’t just another pool chemistry term—it’s a game changer when it comes to keeping your water crystal clear and your maintenance costs low. Roy will also discuss how LSI fits into your overall pool care routine, along with the vital roles of pH, total alkalinity, and calcium hardness.
Whether you're a seasoned pool owner or just getting started, this episode will give you the knowledge to fine-tune your pool chemistry and keep your backyard oasis running smoothly. Tune in for an engaging mix of chemistry, practical tips, and a touch of humor to keep things light. You’ll leave this episode feeling more confident in managing your pool and understanding exactly what makes your water tick.
